Ribbon Checkers

DEFENSE MEDIA ACTIVITY, Md -- Marine Corps MARADMIN 539/18 announced three major changes to MCO 6100.3A affecting the standard Physical Fitness and Combat Fitness Tests, beginning January 1, 2019 for the PFT and July 1, 2019 for the CFT to increase the Corps’ overall physical fitness and combat effectiveness.

The first change will be to the rest times between CFT events. Instead of no less than five minutes of rest between events, three minutes will be the new rest period. This is to decrease the time it takes to complete the test and make the CFT more challenging.

Navy COOL provides information about licenses and certifications applicable to all Navy occupations, offering resources and funding to help Sailors gain appropriate civilian desired, and in many cases, required credentials. COOL also provides other key resources such as Advancement Bibliographies (BIBs) and Learning and Development Roadmaps (LaDRs).

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command is alerting the Army community to be on the lookout for "disaster fraud" charitable schemes and repair scams.

"Disaster fraud occurs after man-made or natural catastrophes such as the recent damage, storm surge and flooding caused by Hurricane Florence. Often dishonest individuals or contractors will use this opportunity to inflate damage estimates, or swindle homeowners in home repair, debris removal and other cleanup scams," said Chris Grey, CID spokesman. "These scammers will also exploit the disaster by seeking out those wishing to support and assist affected victims by soliciting fictitious charitable donations, sending fraudulent e-mails or creating phony websites to solicit contributions or personal information resulting in identity theft."

For permanent change of station (PCS) moves within the 50 states, the policy allows for dependent travel of up to six months before or after the sponsoring Sailor’s PCS move in the following situations: spousal employment or education, dependents in elementary or secondary school (K-12), dependent enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program, or caring for an immediate family member with a chronic or long-term illness. The previous approved policy that allowed DDT for the length of the school year is unchanged by this expansion.

FALLS CHURCH, Va. -- Hurricane Florence’s imminent arrival is a reminder for people to prepare for their health care needs during severe weather.

TRICARE experts recommend making a list that includes your physician’s name and contact information, medications with dosage and frequency, and type and model number of medical devices. Those with chronic health conditions or issues with vision, hearing, or mobility should get medical alert tags or bracelets, and identify how to get to safety.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- For many Sailors this year marks a somewhat surprising reform in the Navy’s female hair regulations. Rules that have stood for so long have been expanded or just plain changed. It’s a new era of styling hair for female Sailors, and, according to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson, it makes for a more “inclusive environment.”

Like with any changes to Navy traditions, new regulations mean new challenges. Senior Sailors aboard the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) know there will be a period of adjustment.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The Federal Voting Assistance Program allows Sailors aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) to make a difference both at home and while at sea.

“While you are out at sea, underway or in a combat zone, you are able to participate in your state and local elections through absentee voting,” said Senior Chief Legalman Earl R. Brown, Harry S. Truman’s absentee voting program lead.

The ROK PUC is the highest unit-level award given by the ROK government and was awarded to all the Sailors of CNFK for "outstanding contribution to the defense of the Republic of Korea." The award follows closely behind the 2016 relocation of CNFK headquarters from Seoul to Busan, where it is now situated next to ROK Fleet (CRF) headquarters. CNFK is the only U.S. military major command to be located on a ROK military base.

National Day of the Deployed honors all of the brave men and woman who have been deployed, are sacrificing, or have sacrificed their lives to defend our country. The day also acknowledges their families who are separated from them during deployment and the sacrifices they make in order for their family members to serve our country.

Research has shown that all students and especially those receiving special education who follow a carefully crafted transition plan are more likely to achieve post-secondary success. Helping professionals can craft these plans, but many may not be aware of the various resources available to ensure students’ successful transition. One of the main resources available to parents/guardians and students are their classroom teachers. Teachers who incorporate transition-related content into instruction using universal design for learning (UDL) principles are in the best position to set up students for post-secondary success. It is thus necessary that parents/guardians and students are trained to inform teachers about UDL and advocate for their use in classroom instruction on an ongoing basis.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas - The Air Force family tree has many branches and one branch, representing the services Gold Star families, has leaves that glow consistently with the rest.

Gold Star families are survivors of military service members who lost their lives during armed hostilities, including deployments in support of military operations against an enemy and/or during an international terrorist attack.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Newborn screenings identify conditions that can affect children's long-term health or survival. Each year, millions of babies in the U.S. are routinely screened for certain genetic, endocrine, and metabolic disorders, and are also tested for hearing loss and critical congenital heart defects, prior to discharge from a hospital or birthing center.

The screenings are a vital public health program that tests babies for congenital disorders that aren't outwardly visible.

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy announced today that this week's update to My Navy Portal (MNP) includes a low bandwidth version that can be accessed afloat, or ashore in areas with limited bandwidth. This latest updated version gives users the option to choose the low bandwidth upon login, or from any page within the portal. By removing all photos, graphics, and formatting found on the standard version, the low bandwidth option is designed to load faster, perform smoother, and enables users to quickly complete Navy career tasks within the portal.

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- September is National Emergency Preparedness Month. Commander, Navy Installations Command's (CNIC) Ready Navy Program educates Sailors and their families on how to be prepared when an emergency occurs. This year's overall theme is "Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can."

Each week in September will have a focused theme: Make a Plan for Yourself, Family and Friends; Plan to Help Your Neighbor and Community; Practice and Build Out Your Plans; and Get Involved! Be a Part of Something Larger.

FORT MEADE, Md. -- The Army reached a number of milestones over the past two years as it continued service-wide integration of female Soldiers into combat career fields and other areas of service.

This summer, women made history at Fort Benning, Georgia, graduating as the first female cavalry scouts and M1 tank crew members. Earlier this month at West Point, the U.S. Military Academy named the first African-American woman as First Captain of Cadets.

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command is cautioning the Army community to be on the lookout for charitable schemes and scams associated with "disaster fraud" donations.

With these scams, criminals will use manmade or natural catastrophes, such as the recent damage and flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey, to get individuals to donate to charities claiming to support affected victims. Some of these organizations are fraudulent, or misleading at best because they do not have the infrastructure to support the affected disaster area.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 28, 2017 — The Defense Department released guidance today to clarify the liberal consideration given to veterans who request upgrades of their discharge saying they had mental health conditions or were victims of sexual assault or sexual harassment.

The new guidance clarifies that the liberal consideration policy includes conditions resulting from post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, sexual assault or sexual harassment, said Air Force Lt. Col. Reggie Yager, the acting director of legal policy in the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.

Everyone’s college experience is unique—and probably not quite what they were expecting, but here are some tried and true tips on how to get through it.

1. Get involved.

This point may be the most overhyped, but it’s still valid. Go to your school’s activities fair if they have one; otherwise, keep your eyes open for opportunities to join different clubs or teams. Joining a club or team can often provide a much-needed relief from your everyday classes or responsibilities, and it’s a great way to meet new people or to try something new! Many schools even have niche groups such as unicycle clubs, quidditch teams (of Harry Potter fame), and virtual reality clubs. If you don’t find a club that aligns with your interests, you can always start your own!

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2016 — The Defense Department today recommitted itself to its solemn pledge to make every effort to bring home all of its missing men and women to their families, Defense Secretary Carter said at the National Prisoner Of War and Missing in Action Recognition Day ceremony on the Pentagon’s River Terrace Parade Grounds this morning.

WASHINGTON September 23, 2015 - Female veterans, trailblazers who served in the military decades ago, received a hero's welcome yesterday after arriving in the nation's capital on the first all-female honor flight.

"Best day of my life" is how retired Army Sgt. Maj. Sue Williams described the visit, which included stops at Arlington National Cemetery and the World War II Memorial.

As part of ongoing Defense Department and Department of Veteran’s Affairs efforts to continue to combat suicide, Pentagon officials recently emphasized the powerful role of individuals -- as well as peer support and other resources -- in suicide prevention.

DoD, in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs, is promoting the “The Power of 1” campaign during September in observance of Suicide Prevention Month. The theme underscores the belief that individuals have the power to teach reliance, recognize warning signs, intervene, chat or make a call; it only takes one person or one act to save another person’s life.

Secretary of Defense Ash Carter and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Paul Selva will host an award ceremony at 2 p.m., Thursday, in the Pentagon's center court yard for the three individuals who stopped a gunman on a Paris-bound train on Aug. 21.

Secretary Carter and Gen. Selva will provide remarks during the ceremony. Stone, Skarlatos and Sadler will conduct a brief media availability in the Pentagon's center courtyard immediately following the awards ceremony.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2014 - Defense Department officials today announced a proposed overhaul of the Military Lending Act, which is designed to protect service members and their dependents during consumer credit transactions.

The proposed changes to the regulation would reduce predatory lending practices, expand protections provided to service members, close loopholes in current rules and help to ensure military families receive important consumer protections, officials said.

Transitioning from active duty status may leave some beneficiaries with questions about their health care. Military families are offered several options to transition from active duty as smoothly as possible. Once you leave active duty status, you will need to take be proactive to ensure that you and your family have health care that meets minimum essential coverage (MEC) as required by the Affordable Care Act.

President Barack Obama presented the medals yesterday during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House. Adkins was present to receive his medal and Sloat's was awarded posthumously. Dr. Bill Sloat, Donald's brother, accepted it on his behalf.

By Navy Seaman Kameren Guy HodnettNavy Public Affairs Support Element East

BALTIMORE, Sept. 14, 2014 - Visitors and special guests watched today as members of the U.S. Army's 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), with the help of War of 1812 re-enactors, hoisted a 15-star, 15-stripe, full-size replica Star-Spangled Banner flag over Fort McHenry here at the "By Dawn's Early Light" flag-raising ceremony.

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas"* - Nearly 1500 Airmen are still missing and unaccounted for from various conflicts. There are more than 83,000 Americans still unaccounted for across the Department of Defense.

Every year the nation pauses on the third Friday of September to remember the sacrifices and service of prisoners of war, members still missing in action and their families. This year the observance falls on Sept. 19.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2014 - Anyone who saw the American flag unfurled at the Pentagon on Sept. 12, 2001, knows how Francis Scott Key felt two centuries ago when he was inspired to write "The Star-Spangled Banner."

The day after the terrorist attack on the Pentagon, the scene was still chaotic. Only essential military and civilian workers were required to come to the building. Parking was at Reagan-National Airport, as all U.S. airspace was still closed. As employees got off the Metro train, Pentagon police stood with weapons examining everyone's badge. Those without a Pentagon ID were told to keep traveling on. The conversation in the building was about friends who remained missing.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2013 - President Barack Obama has issued a proclamation designating Sept. 29 Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day, to honor the families of the fallen. The following is the text of the Presidential Proclamation:

In our city centers and our bustling parks, monuments stand dedicated to visionary leaders and singular moments in the life of our Republic. But in empty seats at family dinners and folded flags above the mantle, we find the constant thread of our Nation's character -- the truth that America endures because it is home to an unbroken line of patriots willing to lay down their lives for the land they love. As we honor the men and women who gave their last full measure of devotion, we hold close the families left behind.

In a Sept. 19 memorandum, Acting Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Jessica L. Wright stated that the KCM recognized the significant contributions of U.S. military personnel in support of Operation Joint Guardian since 1999 as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force.

Seoul Middle School in Korea, Lakenheath Middle School in England, and Kingsolver Elementary School at Fort Campbell, Ky., all received the honor. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program annually recognizes approximately 300 public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students are performing at very high levels or where significant improvements are being made in student achievement levels.

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" – The Air Force Personnel Center plans to reduce access Airmen have to the Automated Records Management System – better known as ARMS – on AFPC Secure Sept. 30.

ARMS consolidated active duty, Reserve and Air National Guard military personnel records from each installation during the last few years. This has reduced manpower, cut costs and improved customer service.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of Air Force pilots Maj. James E. Sizemore of Lawrenceville, Ill., and Maj. Howard V. Andre Jr., of Memphis, Tenn., have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors on Sept. 23 at Arlington National Cemetery.

On July 8, 1969, Sizemore and Andre were on a night armed reconnaissance mission when their A-26A Invader aircraft crashed in Xiangkhoang Province, Laos. Both men died in the crash but their remains were unaccounted for until April 2013.

We are a national military charity, a registered 501c3 non-profit, www.thanksabunch.org . Our charter is to give away $50 Dinner Cards to all military and 'First Responders' - police, firefighters, and paramedics.

In order to get these free dinner cards in the hands of as many servicemen, servicewomen, veterans, and 1st responders as possible, we solicit one auto dealership to run a Hero Appreciation Week where these American heroes can stop by the business location and pick up a $50 dinner card, with no strings attached and no obligation to purchase anything.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2013 - If you're mourning the end of summer ? and with it, the annual vacation season ? take heart that military lodging facilities remain open for business, offering year-round escapes at a fraction of the cost of commercial hotels.

Now might be the perfect time for qualified fun seekers to use their military, retiree or Defense Department identification cards to book lodging at one of hundreds of military-owned accommodations all over the world.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is Friday, Sept. 20, 2013. Each year the president issues a proclamation asking Americans to observe the day as a remembrance of the nation's service members who were held prisoner or are still missing, and their families.

The day's events include a Pentagon commemoration ceremony hosting former prisoners of war, family members, military service members and distinguished guests. Traditionally held on the third Friday in September, the event will include formal military honors and remarks from a keynote speaker.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2013 - President Barack Obama will award the Medal of Honor to former Army Capt. William Swenson for conspicuous gallantry during Sept. 8, 2009, combat operations in Afghanistan's Kunar province.

At the time, Swenson served as an embedded trainer and mentor of the Afghan national security forces with Afghan Border Police Mentor Team, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2013 - Fantasizing about an exotic getaway but finding yourself strapped for cash? A "Space-A" seat aboard a military aircraft might be just your ticket to that vacation of your dreams.

Military-owned or -contracted aircraft fly to more places than many people realize, even to areas without U.S. military installations. When all mission-related passengers and cargo are accommodated, empty seats are offered up to eligible passengers on a space-available basis.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that two U.S. servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

Army Air Force 2nd Lt. Valorie L. Pollard of Monterey, Calif. and Sgt. Dominick J. Licari of Frankfort, N.Y. will be buried as a group in a single casket, on Sept. 19 at Arlington National Cemetery. The individually-identified remains of Licari were buried on Aug. 6 in Frankfort, N.Y.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that two U.S. servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

Army Air Force 2nd Lt. Valorie L. Pollard of Monterey, Calif. and Sgt. Dominick J. Licari of Frankfort, N.Y. will be buried as a group in a single casket, on Sept. 19 at Arlington National Cemetery. The individually-identified remains of Licari were buried on Aug. 6 in Frankfort, N.Y.

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" -You may be able to transfer your Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits to a family member, but if you wait until you're ready to retire or separate or until your dependent children are ready to go to college, it may be too late, Air Force Personnel Center officials said.

Because the Air Force program is tied to retention, only those on active duty after Aug. 1, 2009 are eligible to transfer benefits. Airmen must also have at least six years of service (active duty and/or selected Reserve) on the date of election and agree to serve four additional years.

FORT BELVOIR, Va., Sept. 11, 2013 – First Lady Michelle Obama and actor Gary Sinise paused for arts and crafts with young people during their tour of the new USO Warrior and Family Center here in honor of Patriot Day and National Service Day of Remembrance.

Located adjacent to Warrior Transition Unit and the Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, the Warrior and Family Center provides a hub for programs and activities that promote physical health and recreation, family strengthening, positive behavioral health, education, employment and community reintegration.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 - Beginning Oct. 1, 2012, active-duty members of the Army, Navy and Air Force will be able to contribute to the Roth Thrift Savings Plan as part of their investment planning, Defense Financing and Accounting Service officials said today.

The after-tax contributions will be electronically deducted from service members' pay accounts.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 - President Barack Obama asked the nation to "rededicate ourselves to upholding the sacred trust we share with our Gold Star families and the heroes we have laid to rest," in his proclamation issued today declaring Sept. 30, 2012, as Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day.

The proclamation reads:

"From the revolution that gave life to our Republic to the trials of our times, our men and women in uniform have put themselves in harm's way to defend the people they love and the land they cherish. Their actions attest not only to the depth of their sacrifice, but also to a belief in their country so profound they were willing to give their lives for it. Today, we pay solemn tribute to all who did. Sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, they were all patriots -- and with a devotion to duty that goes without equal, these proud Americans gave of themselves until they had nothing more to give.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Marine Pfc. Richard S. Gzik, of Toledo, Ohio, will be buried today, at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, DC. On Dec. 2, 1950, Gzik and the other Marines of M Battery, 11th Artillery Regiment, 1st Marine Division, came under attack on the west side of the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea. It was during this battle that Gzik was killed in action and his remains were buried alongside the road leading to Hagaru-ri. Later that month, the withdrawal of U.N. forces from the Chosin Reservoir region made it impossible to recover Gzik's remains.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Army Air Forces 2nd Lt. Samuel E. Lunday, of Marianna, Fla., will be buried today, at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, DC. On April 24, 1943, Lunday and four other U.S. servicemen were flying a C-87 Liberator Express aircraft over the Himalayan Mountains, from Yangkai, China, to their home base in Chabua, India. After losing radio communications following take-off, the crew was never heard from again. Eleven aerial search missions were unable to locate the aircraft or crew due to intense snows on the mountains at high altitudes, and dense jungle growth at lower altitudes.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 - The Department of Veterans Affairs has developed a new online community provider toolkit aimed at delivering support, therapeutic tools, and resources to community providers treating veterans for mental health concerns.

"Many veterans seek mental health care at VA, yet many also choose to go to providers in their community," Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki said. "VA is committed to helping veterans wherever they may seek care. This toolkit will enable those community providers who treat veterans to better understand the specific issues veterans face and help them access VA resources."

As the Army conducts its worldwide standdown for suicide prevention today, there is something family members militarywide can do, too, and it only takes a minute. Get out your smart phone and enter the information for the Military Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 Press 1, militarycrisisline.net, or text at 838255.

All calls are confidential and they are taken by trained counselors. So even if you're unsure if someone close to you may be suicidal, you could at least talk through the situation with someone who understands and could share insight. And in the terrible possibility of an emergency, you won't be searching for a number to call.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 - The Defense Department is working with airlines to implement a new flight cancellation policy that will affect air travel for temporary duty travelers, a Pentagon official said today.

Andrea Carlock, chief of the program management branch, which serves as part of the Defense Travel Management Office, discussed the genesis of these changes and the potential impact on DOD travelers.

As part of the Department of Defense's efforts to confront the crime of sexual assault in the military, today the department announced improvements to prospective commander and senior enlisted training and a review of the initial military training environment in every service.

First, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta has instituted higher standards for sexual assault prevention and response (SAPR) training for pre-command training. These changes are the result of a review ordered by the secretary in January 2012.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 - The Defense Department's Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences is conducting the nation's first large-scale study of the impact of a service member's death on surviving family members.

The university's Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, based in Bethesda, Md., received funding through DOD's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program to conduct the five-year study to fill a void in understanding the myriad ways families are affected by a service member's death ranging from the emotional impact to loss of benefits, Dr. Stephen J. Cozza, director of the center's child and family program and a principal investigator of the study, said today.

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" - Federal Voting Assistance Program officials have declared the week of Sept. 27 to Oct. 4 as Absentee Voting Week to ensure service members and their families are aware of upcoming voting absentee deadlines before the Nov. 6 general election.

Absentee Voting Week follows Armed Forces Voters Week (also known as Overseas Citizens Voters Week), which took place from June 28 to July 7. AFVW and OCVW focused on helping voting assistance officers deliver federal post card applications to military members and their voting-age family members. These applications allow voters to register to vote and request a ballot.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2012 - The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced it has approved $28.4 million in grants to fund 38 projects in 25 states and the District of Columbia that will provide transitional housing to homeless veterans.

Among these 38 projects, 31 will provide temporary housing to homeless veterans with the goal that they will retain the residence as their own.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is Friday, Sept. 21. Each year, the President issues a proclamation asking Americans to recognize the nation's service members who were held prisoner or are still missing, and their families.

The day's events include a Pentagon commemoration ceremony hosting former prisoners of war, family members, military service members and distinguished guests. Traditionally held on the third Friday in September, the event will include formal military honors. A flyover of military aircraft is scheduled to conclude the ceremony.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2012 - The Defense Manpower Data Center is making it easier for service members and their families to get and maintain identification cards.

The center has launched its RAPIDS -- Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System -- self-service portal to allow anyone with the Defense Department's common access card, or CAC, to apply for family ID or retirement cards or update dependents' statuses online.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 12, 2012 - With Election Day just 54 days away, federal voting officials want to ensure that service members and their families are prepared for their votes to be counted.

The Federal Voting Assistance Program [ http://www.fvap.gov/ ]has made the voting process easier than ever for Americans serving overseas, Pam Mitchell, the program's acting director, says. The website includes a tab for each state's deadlines for registering to vote and casting absentee ballots. It also has online registration and absentee ballot assistance, and includes a mobile app [ http:// http://www.fvap.gov/mobile/ ].

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2012 - President Barack Obama today signed a proclamation designating tomorrow's 11th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States as Patriot Day and National Day of Remembrance.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2012 - September, National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, is a reminder to everyone in the military community to watch out for each other, a senior defense official said.

Jacqueline Garrick, acting director of the Defense Suicide Prevention Office, told the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service the Defense Department's theme for the month's observance, "Stand By Them," is a prompt to get involved when a friend or loved one seems distressed.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 5, 2012 - Military leaders all the way to the commander in chief are drawing attention to the importance of good mental health and putting resources into programs to help veterans, service members and their families. Read more.

But when it comes to recognizing and treating mental health problems, such as depression, spouses are the first line of defense, some treatment professionals say.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 5, 2012 - With Election Day about two months away, absentee military and overseas citizen voters can enjoy a streamlined process to register, obtain a ballot and exercise their right to vote, a Federal Voting Assistance Program official said in a Pentagon news conference today.

Pam Mitchell, the program's acting director, outlined new outreach initiatives designed to make voting assistance more innovative and user-friendly than ever before, with an emphasis on engaging junior military personnel, the largest segment of the Defense Department population.

The Department of Defense (DoD) launched today the Operation Tomodachi Registry website. The website provides location-based radiation dose estimate reports for adults and children comprising the DoD-affiliated population on or near mainland Japan following the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of March 11, 2011.

DoD-affiliated members who were in Japan during the nuclear reactor crisis, medical providers, and the public at large will be able to download location-based radiation dose estimate reports from the website. These reports include medical interpretations and provide comparisons of the Operation Tomodachi radiation doses with more commonly experienced radiation doses.

DALLAS - The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is forgoing the tricks and going right for the treats in its latest contest as it gives away two $500 Exchange shopping sprees, ten $100 gift cards for the runners up and 20 $50 gift cards for third place.

In accordance with changes authorized in February 2011, the Department of Defense announced today military retirees enrolling in TRICARE® Prime after Oct. 1, 2011, will begin paying an additional $2.50 per month for individual members and $5 per month for members and family. This change does not affect any retiree currently enrolled and only affects future enrollees. Active duty service members will continue to receive health care with no out of pocket costs.

The Producers of The Biggest Loser and ABC's Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition have a new daytime talk show for ABC that will help you shed the weight and get your life back!

We are looking for inspirational and relatable WOMEN who are ready to drop the weight and regain control of their lives. On this show, we will provide you with a trainer and nutrition plan to help you lose the weight within your own environment.

Premier, on-site make-up company, Blend Make-up Artistry, is pleased to announce their services for women attending the Marine Corps Ball, November 12, 2011. Blend Make-up Artistry will be at the National Harbor's Gaylord Hotel on November 12, 2011, from 1:00pm to 6:00p.m. Blend is now accepting appointments for hair and/or make-up services.

by Capt. Carrie L. Kessler Air Force Personnel, Services and Manpower Public Affairs

"SAN ANTONIO" – Air Force Airman and Family Services challenges thousands of youth and teens from across the Air Force to 'Get Up, Get Out and Get Fit' as the seventh year of FitFactor kicks off with the Worldwide Day of Play Sept 24.

"We're proud to continue the FitFactor initiative and encourage youth, teens and families to be physically active every day, and make healthy nutrition choices," said Kimberly Gilman, Air Force Services Agency youth specialist.

From Commander, Navy Installations Command Public Affairs and U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy officials reminded all Navy active duty Sailors and Reservists Sept. 22 they must receive the seasonal influenza or "flu" vaccine upon its availability at their local installation's medical treatment facility (MTF) as directed by NAVADMIN 207/11.

The Navy's goal is to have 90 percent of all Navy personnel vaccinated for the flu by Dec. 1.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of nine servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

Army Air Forces 1st Lt. William J. Sarsfield of Philadelphia; 2nd Lt. Charles E. Trimingham of Salinas, Calif.; Tech. Sgt. Robert L. Christopherson of Blue Earth, Minn.; and Tech. Sgt. Leonard A. Gionet of Shirley, Mass., will be buried as a group in a single casket on Sept. 21 in Arlington National Cemetery, along with remains representing previously identified crew members 2nd Lt. Herman H. Knott, 2nd Lt. Francis G. Peattie, Staff Sgt. Henry Garcia, Staff Sgt. Robert E. Griebel, and Staff Sgt. Pace P. Payne, who were individually buried in 1985.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2011 - Military retirees would pay an annual fee for TRICARE-for-Life health insurance and TRICARE pharmacy co-payments would be restructured under the deficit reduction plan President Barack Obama released today.

"If we're going to meet our responsibilities, we have to do it together," Obama said during a Rose Garden speech to announce the President's Plan for Economic Growth and Deficit Reduction. The plan reduces $4.4 trillion from the $14.7 trillion federal deficit over 10 years through a combination of spending cuts and increased tax revenue.

The improved federal employment search portal is slated to launch at noon Oct. 12. In order to implement the upgrades, USAJOBS will be off line Oct. 6 through 12. As a result, all current Air Force announcements will close no later than Oct. 1, with new announcements opening Oct. 12, said Nancy Tackett, AFPC supervisory human resources specialist.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2011 - Service members and their families have done all the nation has asked of them over this past decade of war; it's now time for the nation to return their service and sacrifice with honor and appreciation, first lady Michelle Obama wrote in an op-ed published in today's edition of USA Today.

"We've never asked so much of our all-volunteer force," she wrote. "And we've never asked this much of our military families either."

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2011 - President Barack Obama today draped the pale blue ribbon suspending the Medal of Honor around the neck of Marine Corps Sgt. Dakota L. Meyer, the first living Marine to receive the award for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan.

"It's been said that where there is a brave man, in the thickest of the fight, there is the post of honor," the commander in chief said. "Today we pay tribute to an American who placed himself in the thick of the fight again, and again, and again."

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2011 - A dispute between Walgreens and a TRICARE contractor will not stop beneficiaries from getting their prescriptions filled, despite a Walgreen's ad campaign to the contrary, a TRICARE official said today.

Don't let that advertising, letter and Internet outreach campaign scare you, Navy Rear Adm. Christine Hunter, deputy director of the TRICARE Management Agency, said. Even if contract renewal negotiations fall through and Walgreens drops out of TRICARE's retail pharmacy network on Jan. 1, beneficiaries still will have plenty of other options for getting their prescriptions filled.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2011 - Several months ago, the producers of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" asked me to spread the word about their search for people involved in the military to feature on the show's upcoming season.

They got a huge response and selected an exceptional Navy veteran for a home makeover. A few months ago, I traveled to Fayetteville, N.C., to watch hundreds of volunteers build Barbara Marshall a new 5,000-square-foot home. The three-story home, dubbed the Jubilee House, serves as a shelter and resource center for homeless female veterans.

by Jon HansonAir Force Personnel, Services and Manpower Public Affairs

"RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas" – Every year on the third Friday in September during National POW/MIA Recognition Day the nation takes time to reflect on those Americans who paid the ultimate price for their country.

For service casualty officers with the Air Force Missing Persons Branch honoring those unaccounted-for Airmen is a yearlong function. The branch serves as the point of contact for the next of kin of unaccounted-for Airmen from the Korean, Cold and Vietnam wars, as well as current-day operations.

Public access to the Pentagon Memorial will be limited this weekend due to formal ceremonies commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack and private visitation of the site by survivors and surviving family members. The memorial will be closed to the public on Sept. 11 until 6 p.m., and intermittently on Sept. 9 and 10.

While the memorial is normally open to the general public, visitors are asked to plan around these scheduled closures.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 6, 2011 - A new Defense Department school policy underscores the importance of student attendance, while also considering military families' unique needs, the acting director of the Department of Defense Education Activity said.

The policy, which went into effect Sept. 1, requires students attending DOD schools to be in attendance for 180 instructional days per academic year, barring illness and emergency situations. Most schools typically have 181-183 days scheduled per school year.

CLEVELAND, Sept. 6, 2011 - Paydays for military retirees and those who receive portions of retired pay are changing for the months of September and December, as the Defense Finance and Accounting Service changes its pay schedule to comply with the 2011 National Defense Authorization Act.

The 2011 NDAA requires military retiree pay to be processed on the first day of the month. When that day falls on a weekend or national holiday, the pay date is moved to the previous business day.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg announced today that amphibious transport dock ship USS New York will travel to New York City to participate in numerous events throughout the city honoring the victims and responders from the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

Additionally, 170 members of the 9/11 Families Association, which includes families of victims and first responders, will embark the USS New York for the transit from Norfolk, Va., to New York Harbor.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31, 2011 - With a single phone call, service member and family beneficiaries under TRICARE Prime can arrive at a new duty station, confident their medical records and prescriptions were transferred and new doctors were lined up for them in advance, a top TRICARE official said.

TRICARE's "Moving Made Easy" option takes some of the stress out of moving, Navy Rear Adm. (Dr.) Christine Hunter, TRICARE Management Activity deputy director, said in an Aug. 26 interview.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2010 - Veterans of the first Gulf War as well as current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan now have a smoother path toward receiving health-care benefits and disability compensation for nine diseases associated with their military service, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced today.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2010 - More than 100 residents at the Armed Forces Retirement Home here are packing up to move back into a brand-new complex in Gulfport, Miss., that replaces the facility that was destroyed five years ago by Hurricane Katrina.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2010 - The Department of Defense today announced Absentee Voting Week, Sept. 27 to Oct. 4, to help servicemembers and civilians serving outside their home states make their votes count.

With all U.S. House of Representatives and some U.S. Senate seats at stake during the mid-term elections Nov. 2, the department's Federal Voting Assistance Program has launched a new set of tools to connect voters with their state election processes.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Army Sgt. Edward T. Jones, of West Pawlet, Vt., will be buried on Sept. 25 in Saratoga, N.Y. In November 1944, the 112th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division was traveling east through the Huertgen Forest in an attempt to capture the German towns of Vossenack and Schmidt. On Nov. 6, Jones and five other members of A Company, 112th Infantry Regiment, were killed in the town of Kommerscheidt when a German tank fired point-blank on their position.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 22, 2010 - Dozens of military family members took to the nation's capital today to educate lawmakers about their most pressing issues.

Those issues were revealed in the Blue Star Families' 2010 Military Family Lifestyle Survey, which the military family advocacy group unveiled in the Capitol Visitors Center to mark the start of the Joint Congressional and Senate Military Families Caucus Event.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

U.S. Army Pfc. James C. Konyud, of Cleveland, will be buried on Sept. 25 in his hometown. From mid-September 1944 to early February 1945, the U.S. Army was engaged against German forces in the Huertgen Forest, along the Germany/Belgium border, in the longest continuously fought battle in American history. In early January 1945, elements of the 121st Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division were deployed defensively in the area southeast of Aachen. Konyud, a member of K Company, 121st Infantry Regiment, was reported missing near the location on January 1.

Ms Barabara Williams is offering to make donations to the Wounded Warriors program from the proceeds of a candle that she offers and that is called "My Soldier My Hero". From her description "The candle is 7 ozs. soy, has longer burn times and more fragrance than others on the market. The fragrance is apple pie and the candle is designed to honor those brave soldiers who serve with valor; who continually place their lives on the line to preserve "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." We want to always remember those we call our heroes.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2010 - President Barack Obama today presented the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry to the family of an Air Force chief master sergeant killed in action 42 years ago in Laos.

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas - Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz announced a change to the air and space expeditionary force rotational baseline from 120 to 179 days for the active component.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2010 - The federal government has a lot of problems to solve, and a new website it launched this week will give average citizens a forum to discuss and potentially solve those problems while vying for rewards for the best solutions.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

I am a producer for a national PBS news show and am working on a story about families taking care of servicemembers who've suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury. So that is, the wives, husbands, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles or any other family members who've devoted their lives to caring for a servicemember with a TBI.

By Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke Special to American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 30, 2009 - About 90 Hawaii National Guard members are on their way to American Samoa today to help in the recovery efforts on the Pacific island, National Guard officials announced.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2009 - Officials in the Pentagon's Office of Military Community and Family Policy have announced the upcoming expansion of a popular child care program and other news affecting military families.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2009 - Checks for up to $3,000 soon will be available to students who have applied for Veterans Affairs educational benefits and who have not yet received their government payment.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2009 - American servicemembers who've perished in the nation's wars "died for the ones they loved," the U.S. military's top officer said today at a special ceremony held on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol.

CHICAGO, Sept. 23, 2009 - In some respects, life for military children today isn't much different than it was decades ago. Like all kids, they still face bullying, cliques and homework in the course of a school day.

By Air Force Senior Airman Jameel Moses Special to American Forces Press Service

SHARPSBURG, Md., Sept. 17, 2009 - The remains of a Union Civil War soldier found at the Antietam National Battlefield here will be buried today in his home state of New York on the 147th anniversary of the battle, the Civil War's bloodiest day.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2009 - Grammy Award-winning country music stars Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are teaming up with civilian and military medical experts to further medical innovations and quality-of-life research for America's battle-wounded, ill and injured warriors.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2009 - The National Call for Photos, a campaign to gather images of the more than 58,000 men and women whose names are on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, will be launched Sept. 17 at a Newseum event here hosted by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and FedEx Office.

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 14, 2009 - The Army Reserve's top officer welcomed soldiers, their families and community leaders to "Fort Rochester" over the weekend as they gathered at the Wadsworth Army Reserve Center here to cut the ribbon on the first Army Strong Community Center.

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2009 - Eleven volunteer-based organizations were rewarded in a Pentagon ceremony here today for their ingenuity and innovative efforts to improve the lives of military members and their communities.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2009 - Families who lost loved ones during the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon plan to mark the first anniversary of the Pentagon Memorial by introducing a new docent program ? and they're looking for volunteers to help.

FORT BELVOIR, Va., Sept. 8, 2009 - As President Barack Obama was in nearby Arlington giving his pep talk today to America's schoolchildren, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates arrived here in a receiving mode to hear firsthand about challenges military children face in the education system.

MilitaryWives.com has just learned that there is a New Shirt Series, for Military Husband's created by the designer M.MAC that is called the COMBAT ARTIST SERIES. It is being designed for each branch of the Military Service. Each of these quality men's shirts represents actual drawings and journal entries from "Real Combat Artists" who have served with your husbands in battle.

By Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith Special to American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 4, 2009 - Air Force Maj. Dan Rooney knows that just a dollar or more added to your golf greens fees this Labor Day weekend can provide millions of dollars to help servicemembers and their families.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 4, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates used the strongest terms in trying to persuade the Associated Press to refrain from running a graphic picture of a Marine taken shortly after the servicemember was wounded in southern Afghanistan, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said here today.

The Department of the Army announced today the extension of a division headquarters and a combat aviation brigade in Afghanistan, as well as the future deployment of a division headquarters with recent Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) experience.

CHICAGO, Sept. 3, 2009 - Participants in the Defense Department's three-day Joint Family Readiness Conference that wraps up here today are going back to their installations better equipped to give military families the kinds of support they need.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 2009 - The top enlisted servicemembers from each of the four services offered their appreciation to those who support military families before fielding some tough questions during a town hall-style meeting here Sept. 1.

CHICAGO, Sept. 1, 2009 - With personal assurance from the nation's first lady that President Barack Obama is committed to military families, more than 1,500 people participated as the Defense Department's Joint Family Readiness Conference kicked off here today.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 1, 2009 - All military personnel will be vaccinated against the H1N1 flu virus, and the vaccine will be available to all military family members who want it, a Defense Department health affairs official said today.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 1, 2009 - The White House launched an interactive, virtual town hall meeting yesterday that enables troops deployed within U.S. Central Command to pose their questions and get direct feedback from the commander in chief.

The Department of Defense announced today additional major units scheduled to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The announcement involves one corps headquarters, one division headquarters, one Marine expeditionary force headquarters and seven brigade combat teams consisting of approximately 26,000 people. The deployment window for these units will begin in the winter and continue into Summer 2009.

CAMP ECHO, Iraq, Sept. 30, 2008 - Although most would rather be at home, soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team here are enjoying the comforts and amenities of life at their temporary home away from home.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2008 - President Bush has proclaimed Sept. 28 as Gold Star Mother's Day this year. The day honors the mothers of men and women who were killed in the line of duty while serving the nation in the armed forces.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2008 - The aroma of roasted lamb rubbed with saffron wafts from a bazaar that begins to empty as the sun sinks between a pair of mosque towers. A soldier walks past a veiled woman, her eyes peering through a thin slit in an ink-black headscarf. The call to prayer beckons from a lone mosque in the parched, desert town.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2008 - As mathematical formulas and reading lists overtake kids' memories of laughing with friends at summer camp, the National Military Family Association is already gearing up to rekindle those memories for next year.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 22, 2008 - Thirty-five Minnesota soldiers who returned home from Iraq and Afghanistan in the past year were among nearly 300 golfers who participated in the 2nd Annual Bryan McDonough American Heroes Golf Classic last month at Oak Glen Golf Course in Stillwater, Minn.

ARLINGTON, Sept. 19, 2008 - When Hurricane Ike made landfall on the Texas coast, it left behind damaged and destroyed buildings, massive flooding, and thousands of residents without power or, in many cases, without homes.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2008 - Since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have begun, thousands of American soldiers have been welcomed home with elaborate parades, gymnasiums packed with tearful spouses and children, and commanders proclaiming from podiums great deeds done in battle.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2008 - When Rosita, a Sesame Street Muppet, showed up at John Tyler Elementary School here today, she had a flashlight, batteries, a shiny new radio and a message for about two dozen of the school's pre-kindergarteners: "Be prepared."

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2008 - The letter that appeared in a soldier's mailbox promised an offer almost too good to be true: a home improvement loan approved by Congress and backed up by a government agency.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2008 - The Military Officers Association of America and the U.S. Naval Institute will host a one-day forum titled "Measuring Success: Keeping Faith with Wounded Warriors and Their Families" tomorrow at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Capitol Hill here.

ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 15, 2008 - In two Defense Department-led initiatives today, a military-family support program launched its nationwide expansion, and the Armed Services YMCA introduced a new offering to families whose loved one is deployed.

The Department of Defense announced today the deployment of two additional units to Afghanistan. A Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) that could have up to approximately 2,000 Marines will deploy to Afghanistan in November 2008 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2008 - The Jack Daniel distillery and United Service Organizations will enlist the help of military spouses and other volunteers to assemble 10,000 Operation USO care packages at a "stuffing party" Sept. 18 at Fort Bragg, NC.

By Air Force Capt. Dale Greer Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2008 - About 25 pararescuemen, combat controllers and support troops from the Kentucky Air Guard's 123rd Special Tactics Squadron began deploying to coastal Texas today to conduct rescue operations for victims of Hurricane Ike.

By Indiana Army National Guard Spc. William E. Henry American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2008 - GRAND ISLE, La. ? In an effort to prevent looting of area residents' property and local businesses, Louisiana National Guardsmen began patrolling the waters along the north shore of Grand Isle, La.

JACKSON, Miss., Sept. 11, 2008 - About 100 Mississippi Army National Guard soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 155th Combined Arms Battalion, left yesterday for Gulfport, Miss., to assist local authorities as they deal with rising flood waters and additional flooding in Harrison and Hancock Counties.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2008 - A 75-minute documentary that focuses on the lives of six military widows from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars will start making the rounds this month at military bases and Veterans of Foreign Wars halls across the country.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2008 - On the seventh anniversary of the day a hijacked airliner slammed into the Pentagon, President Bush today dedicated a memorial near the crash site, calling it not only a place of remembrance, but also a reminder of the resilience of the American spirit.

(New York, NY)  On June 24th Razor & Tie Entertainment released PATRIOTIC COUNTRY 3, the sequel to the best-selling, Top 10 charting PATRIOTIC COUNTRY and PATRIOTIC COUNTRY 2 collections. This CD provides a multitude of dynamic, popular patriotic songs from some of the biggest current stars and the legends of country music. It serves the dual purpose of providing entertainment for any country music fan as well as raising awareness for Our Military Kids, a leader in supporting National Guard and military reserve families - one child at a time. A portion of the proceeds of the CD sales will benefit this charity and the children of the armed services.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. , Sept. 10, 2008 - A positive attitude and giving back to their community has earned a Colorado Springs, Colo., family the National Military Family Association's title of 2008 Family of the Year.

MADISON, Wis. , Sept. 10, 2008 - The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the Wisconsin Army National Guard will deploy as many as 3,500 soldiers for an active-duty mission in Iraq in what officials said will be the largest operational deployment of Wisconsin National Guard forces since World War II.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

DoD announced today that the Military OneSource service has established a Wounded Warrior Resource Center telephone number and e-mail address for service members and their families, if they have concerns or other difficulties during their recovery process.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 8, 2008 - Operation Life Transformed - a home-front group of the Defense Department's America Supports You program recently awarded its 10th Naval Air Station Lemoore Scholarship of the year.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 7, 2008 - Nearly 10,000 people walked the mile between Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon's South Parking lot here to commemorate the events of Sept. 11, 2001, as part of today's fourth annual National America Supports You Freedom Walk.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of three U.S. servicemen, missing from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 4, 2008 - The Pentagon Memorial -- scheduled to be dedicated next week on the seventh anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack -- is a reminder that "each generation inherits freedom, and it's up to each generation to protect it and pass it along," a former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

By Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith Special to American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 2, 2008 - With tens of thousands of Gulf Coast residents in the potential path of Hurricane Gustav during the Labor Day weekend, Air National Guard members put aside their last-minute school shopping and backyard picnics to bring their states' Guard airpower to the displaced.

GULFPORT, Miss., Sept. 2, 2008 - Labor Day began here yesterday with pounding rain and high-velocity winds from a hurricane that many believed would match the devastation that Hurricane Katrina wrought three years ago, but the coast is clear today and damage was minimal from the weaker-than-expected Hurricane Gustav.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2007 - The U.S. state of Georgia and the Republic of Georgia in Eastern Europe might seem like strange strategic partners. But since 1993, the National Guard has breached barriers between American states and international states with positive results.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2007 - A military appeals court ruled yesterday that a military trial judge has the authority to determine jurisdiction in a military commission, a ruling that paves the way for proceedings to continue against suspected terrorists at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2007 - The United States military will "neither forget our duty to bring home all POWs and MIAs, nor relent in our efforts to do so," Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said here today.

By Master Sgt. Bob Haskell, USA Special to American Forces Press Service

DALLAS, Sept. 20, 2007 - Dale Earnhardt Jr., whose family's name is part and parcel with American motorsports legend, will drive the Chevrolet the National Guard will sponsor in NASCAR's top-level Sprint Cup series in 2008.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2007 - An organization in Phoenix is offering individuals, including some veterans, a lifeline when it comes to meeting some of their needs, such as housing, employment or just a simple word of encouragement.

DILI, Timor-Leste, Sept. 19, 2007 - The commander of U.S. Pacific Command met here today with Timorese government and military leaders to praise strides they've made in building a new democracy, and he promised U.S. support to help them overcome challenges to that democracy.

NUKUALOFA, Tonga, Sept. 17, 2007 - Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating arrived here today at the capital of this 17-island archipelago to thank its people for setting the example for other countries around the world as they support the war on terror.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2007 - On Jan. 29, 2006, a roadside-bomb explosion near Taji, Iraq, started one TV news personality on a journey from war correspondent to casualty of war, and finally to co-founder of a fund-raising organization to improve awareness about traumatic brain injury.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2007 - The new Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here represents "an evolution in how we embrace, treat and honor," wounded warriors, the Army vice chief of staff said at yesterday's opening ceremony.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2007 - The Dallas Songwriters Association is inviting aspiring songwriters who happen to wear a military uniform to enter their original tunes in its 2007/2008 "Songs from the Soul of Service" contest.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2007 - A mortar that killed a coalition servicemember and injured 12 when it detonated earlier this week at a coalition operating base likely was manufactured in Iran, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq said yesterday.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 12, 2007 - Turbocam International's support of its deployed employees with technology to use in the field and a special supply fund has earned the company a place of honor alongside 14 other organizations being recognized today with Secretary of Defense Employer Freedom Awards.

SEBRING, Ohio, Sept. 12, 2007 - The more than 1,000 people who walked in the second annual Freedom Walk here yesterday did so to remember, reflect and commemorate those who were killed in the terrorist attacks six years ago.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2007 - Although Jessica Strasser's husband is now deployed to Afghanistan with his Iowa Army National Guard unit, she says life on the farm is immeasurably easier thanks to his employer.

What do you do, when your feelings are so strong?When the pain just won't stop, cause he's been gone for so long?When you're left all alone, you can't control your thoughts,All those lonely late nights spent awake in the dark.Is he thinking about you, the way you do him?Or is the fire slowly dying and starting to get dim?You count the hours, and they turn into days.But life has to go on, even when he is awayYou have no choice, for you both took the vowLike he does you, keep your head up, and make him proud.You count the months, and suddenly they're years.You want to cry, but by now you're all out of tears.You must stay strong, you've chosen this lifeNever forget that you are stronger than the restNever forget, you are a soldier's wife.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2007 - In the shadow of the Washington Monument and under the watchful eyes of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial, some 8,000 participants gathered at the National Mall here to walk in the third annual America Supports You Freedom Walk.

DALLAS, Sept. 9, 2007 - More than 50 servicemembers not only enjoyed front-row seats at a Brooks and Dunn concert here last night, but also were guests at a backstage reception where they got a handshake and the personal thanks of the country music giants.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2007 - As thousands of people filled the Pentagon parking lot at the end of the third America Supports You Freedom Walk today, they were greeted by groups individually working toward the collective goal of supporting troops and their families.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 7, 2007 - Thousands have indicated their desire to commemorate the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, and support the nation's troops by walking in the third annual America Supports You Freedom Walk here Sept. 9.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 6, 2007 - President Bush is urging Americans to light candles and ring bells to honor terrorism victims and servicemembers during "National Days of Prayer and Remembrance" tomorrow through Sept. 9.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 6, 2007 - The Pentagon is awaiting results of an Air Force investigation into the alleged improper transfer of weapons by air from a base in North Dakota to a Louisiana military installation last week.

By Sgt. 1st Class Erick Studenicka, USA Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 5, 2007 - Searching in some of the most remote areas in the most mountainous state in the United States, Nevada National Guard members continue to seek the whereabouts of millionaire adventurer and pilot Steve Fossett today.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 4, 2007 - A coalition helicopter made an unscheduled landing in Afghanistan today without injury to its crew or passengers, while Afghan and coalition forces thwarted a Taliban attack near Firebase Anaconda, in Oruzgun province, U.S. officials reported.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 4, 2007 - The Defense Department receives many attempted cyber attacks each day and has measures in place to aggressively respond to and deter these attacks, a department spokesman said today.

HEIDELBERG, Germany, Sept. 29, 2006 - Starting Oct. 1, military spouses in Europe interested in teaching can participate in the Department of Defense Spouses to Teachers program, which until now had been only available stateside.

PORTOROZ, Slovenia, Sept. 28, 2006 - Some 12,000 U.S. troops in 14 eastern provinces of Afghanistan will come under NATO control in the near future following a decision today by the alliance's defense ministers meeting here.

By Staff Sgt. Les Newport, USASpecial to American Forces Press Service

CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind., Sept. 27, 2006 - While a multinational assembly met at the United Nations in mid-September to evaluate progress on the Kosovo situation, a multi-state task force of National Guard soldiers prepared to assume responsibilities of U.S. peacekeeping efforts in the region.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2006 - The U.S. Coast Guard will be featured in two major productions debuting this month: an original documentary episode of "Recon" airing on the Pentagon Channel entitled "Always Ready," and a Hollywood feature film entitled "The Guardian," starring Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutchner.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2006 - A Marine corporal quizzed top leaders at a recent Pentagon employees' question-and-answer session about what the department can do to counter the reporting of negative news from Iraq and Afghanistan.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 22, 2006 - In an effort to provide clarity in awards standards across the military services, the Defense Department has begun a comprehensive review of military awards and decorations, a DoD official said here yesterday.

FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas, Sept. 21, 2006 - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alex Morales may have lost both his legs while on a training mission in support of the global war on terrorism, but he was standing tall Sept. 19 at the Hiring Heroes Career Fair here.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2006 - The hot dog stand in the Pentagon's center courtyard, which has long been a source of Cold War intrigue, will be torn down in the coming months and replaced with a new eating facility.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Sept. 20, 2006 - The Department of Homeland Security has seen a drop in the number of illegal immigrants crossing the U.S. border with Mexico for the first time, and the National Guard has made the difference, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said here Sept. 18.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2006 - Several NATO countries have agreed to send additional forces to Afghanistan to fill the troop requirement agreed upon a year and a half ago, NATO's supreme allied commander in Europe said today.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2006 - New identification cards to be issued to Defense Department employees beginning next month will help standardize workforce identification and security access systems across the government, a senior Defense Department official said here Sept. 15.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2006 - Enlisted leaders from all the military combatant commands and the different branches of service met here last week to discuss issues pertaining to the enlisted force and cooperation between the military and other government agencies.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2006 - There's no question that parts of Iraq are dangerous or that the mission there is tough, but President Bush said today he's convinced progress continues and vowed that the United States won't abandon the Iraqis.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2006 - As Americans pause today to observe POW/MIA Recognition Day tomorrow, teams of military and civilian experts will be excavating sites in Europe, South Korea, Solomon Islands, Alaska and Hawaii, looking for remains to help identify servicemembers still missing from past wars.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2006 - Iraqi and coalition forces captured a key al Qaeda operative and some 70 more terror suspects in Iraq during a series of 25 raids in and around Baghdad Sept. 12, a senior Multinational Force Iraq spokesman told reporters in Baghdad today.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2006 - Special operations forces personnel, so accustomed to operating in the shadows, stepped sadly into the light tonight as the Navy presented the widows of two SEALs killed in Afghanistan with the nation's second-highest military award for valor.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2006 - A 17-year-old Los Angeles boy likes the sentiment of the old song about tying a yellow ribbon 'round the old oak tree to remember someone who's away from home. But Matthew Cook is taking the idea a step -- make that a mile -- further.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2006 - Tears flowed freely under the gray sky as family members of those killed in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, gathered outside the Pentagon today to honor the memory of their loved ones.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2006 - A sea of walkers in white shirts proudly proclaiming their participation in the America Supports You Freedom Walk walked from Washington to the Pentagon to remember those murdered on Sept. 11, 2001.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2006 - People kept a respectful silence as 184 beams of white light emanated from the Pentagon's center courtyard this evening, rising into the night sky like lonely wraiths searching for lost loved ones.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2006 - Hundreds of family members who lost loved ones during the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks called today's America Supports You Freedom Walk a time to reflect and heal with the comfort of knowing that the nation hasn't forgotten their losses.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2006 - The Air Force major missing in Kyrgyzstan since Sept. 5 was found alive, officials with U.S. Central Command Air Forces Forward, in Southwest Asia, announced yesterday evening.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 6, 2006 - The Defense Department is focusing efforts to ensure servicemembers stationed overseas and in the United States know their options for voting in the 2006 congressional and local elections.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 6, 2006 - Columbia, S.C., will remember the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States and honor servicemembers past and present with a Freedom Walk Sept. 11, according to a news release from the city.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 6, 2006 - The northwestern suburbs of Chicago will hold a Freedom Walk on Sept. 9 to remember the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and to honor the nation's veterans, past and present.

WASHINGTON, Sep. 6, 2006 - Army Sgt. J.R. Schultz spent much of his down time in Iraq writing songs with his buddies. The endeavor paid big dividends when he entered the Dallas Songwriters Association's "Songs From the Soul of Service" amateur songwriting contest.

WASHINGTON, Sep. 6, 2006 - A high-level al Qaeda in Iraq leader whose capture was announced Sept. 3 by the Iraqi government was actually captured June 19 and has been yielding valuable intelligence since then, a U.S. military spokesman in Iraq said today.

FONTANA, Calif., Sep. 5, 2006 - For the sixth time since a California teenager began her quest two and a half years ago to collect and distribute a million thank you letters to U.S. servicemembers, the "A Million Thanks" organization set up its booth at a Nextel Cup NASCAR race.

WASHINGTON, Sep. 1, 2006 - Fort Riley, Kan., an Army base that's been a big player in the war on terror, will commemorate the terrorist attacks that gave rise to it during a Freedom Walk Sept. 11, the fifth anniversary of those attacks.

WASHINGTON, Sep. 1, 2006 - More military health system beneficiaries are opting to have prescriptions mailed to their homes, rather than picking up medications at installation or commercial-sector pharmacies, a military health care official said here yesterday.

WASHINGTON, Sep. 1, 2006 - Interest is building on Capitol Hill in putting a nationwide cap on the interest rates lenders can charge servicemembers for loans, a measure the Defense Department is pushing to protect its force.

WASHINGTON, Sep. 1, 2006 - Americans can help the nation's servicemembers by helping Brittany and Robbie Bergquist and their organization, Cell Phones for Soldiers, win one of three $50,000 Volvo for Life Awards.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31, 2006 - Target Corporation, a national retailer, has taken aim at a Washington area troops support group, providing it with a $20,000 donation, the founder and president of Our Military Kids said.

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